How to Know When It’s Time to Pivot
As women lawyers, we often find ourselves chasing a version of success that society has handed to us—a checklist of accomplishments that supposedly signify we’ve "made it." But what happens when we reach the summit, only to realize it doesn’t feel like success? What happens when the roles we’ve worked so hard to embody—lawyer, leader, perfectionist—leave us feeling unfulfilled?
This is a question that drives so many of the conversations on the Powerhouse Lawyers Podcast, and it’s a journey I’ve walked myself. In our latest episode, I had the privilege of speaking with Arivee Vargas, a trailblazing first-generation Latina, lawyer, best selling author and executive coach, whose story is a masterclass in courage, reflection, and reinvention.
Arivee’s journey from corporate legal powerhouse to purpose-driven entrepreneur is both inspiring and deeply relatable. She challenges us to confront the discomfort of realizing that the life we’ve built may no longer align with the person we’re becoming. Her insights remind us that our worth is not tied to our achievements but to our authenticity and impact.
If you’ve ever felt like you’re stuck on a hamster wheel of expectations, grinding away for a version of success that doesn’t serve you, this episode—and Arivee’s story—is for you.
The Journey to Realignment
Arivee’s story isn’t just about leaving a corporate career; it’s about learning to trust herself again. For so many women lawyers, the journey to clarity starts with a simple yet profound realization: We have the power to choose.
We are not prisoners of our career choices or the expectations others have for us. When we take a step back and ask ourselves the hard questions—about our values, our purpose, and our legacy—we open the door to a life that feels aligned, intentional, and fulfilling.
Key Takeaways from the Episode
- The Pressure to Stay on the Predetermined Path Arivee shared how her decision to pursue law was shaped by societal and familial expectations. As a first-generation Latina, the promise of financial security and the allure of a prestigious career made law an obvious choice. Yet, as her career progressed, she realized that the version of success she was chasing wasn’t her own.
- The Identity Crisis That Comes With Motherhood Like many women, Arivee found that motherhood disrupted her professional identity. Suddenly, the metrics of success that once guided her career felt insufficient. This pivotal moment forced her to reassess what truly mattered and how she wanted to spend her time.
- Listening to the Whispers We’ve all felt it—that quiet, persistent voice telling us something needs to change. Arivee spoke candidly about how these whispers of dissatisfaction grew louder over time, becoming impossible to ignore. It’s a reminder to all of us to pay attention to the signs and trust our instincts.
- The Role of Community and Coaching No one achieves clarity or reinvention alone. Arivee emphasized how coaching and a supportive community were instrumental in helping her redefine her path. Surrounding yourself with people who understand your journey and hold you accountable is a game-changer.
- It’s Never Too Late to Pivot Arivee’s decision to leave her corporate role in 2024 was not a failure—it was an evolution. Her story proves that it’s never too late to rewrite your narrative. Every experience you’ve had prepares you for the next chapter.
Listening to Arivee’s journey hit close to home. I’ve been there—feeling stuck, overwhelmed, and unsure of what’s next. What helped me break through was taking a step back and asking myself five simple but transformative questions:
- What’s working in my life right now, and what isn’t?
- What are my core values, and am I living in alignment with them?
- What’s one thing I can do today to move closer to the life I want?
- How am I taking care of myself—physically, mentally, and emotionally?
- What legacy do I want to leave behind?
These questions brought me back to clarity, motivation, and momentum. They reminded me that I have the power to choose—just as you do.
As women lawyers, we’re taught to be strong, to endure, and to succeed at all costs. But real strength lies in choosing alignment over appearances, purpose over perfection, and authenticity over approval.
It’s not always easy, but it’s worth it. Because when we create a life that reflects who we are—our values, our dreams, our purpose—we don’t just succeed; we thrive.
🎧 Listen to the Full Episode to hear more about Arivee’s inspiring journey.
Connect with Arivee:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ariveevargas/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ariveevargas/
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About the Author: Erin Gerner is a lawyer turned coach, entrepreneur, and host of the Powerhouse Lawyers podcast. She helps female lawyers step into their power, break through limiting beliefs, and build lives they can’t wait to wake up for. Learn more about her coaching programs and schedule an obligation free strategy call, connect with her here.
